Sydney is not only one of the most recognisable cities in the world, but it is also the most popular tourist destination in Australia so there is no shortage of things to do and see.
From the nightlife to the Opera House to the beautiful beaches in neighbouring suburbs, Sydney has something for all ages and you are sure to have a memorable stay here no matter what time of year it is.
If you are looking for things to do in Sydney then you have come to the right place. We have put together this guide of the top 10 things to do in Sydney, so let’s get cracking shall we!
#1 – Sydney Opera House
Built in 1973, the Sydney Opera House is one of the most recognisable structures in the entire world. When you see it you instantly know you’re in Sydney. It is one of the number one photo spots for tourists when in Sydney.
But what actually is the Sydney Opera House? It’s actually a multi-venue performing arts centres. Facilities include a concert hall, drama theatres, recording studios and playhouse. There have even been big concerts on the steps.
We highly recommend checking out the Opera Bar which I personally rate as one of the best bars in the entire world. You get stunning views of the harbour and it is absolutely stunning at night time. You can also do tours of the Opera House if you wish.
#2 – Sydney Harbour Bridge
Another iconic staple of the Sydney Harbour area. The bridge was built in 1932 after nine long years and numerous hiccups. It is the worlds tallest steel arch bridge and the sixth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world.
A trip to Sydney would not be complete without walking across the harbour bridge. It is free to do and there are walking tracks either side which give you a breathtaking view of Port Jackson harbour, plus a great photo opportunity of the Opera House.
If you are feeling a little more adventurous then maybe you might like to climb to the top! It’s not for the faint hearted, especially if you hate heights, but it is well worth doing. It takes several hours to do and you must reserve a spot.
It will cost roughly $200-$300 depending on what type of climb you want to do, but it is well worth it. You can choose morning, day or night and choose from a number of different options.
#3 – Taronga Zoo
Located in Mosman, just outside of Sydney and a short ferry ride from the Sydney Harbour area, is the Taronga Zoo. It is a world famous zoo and one of the finest in all of Australia.
It officially opened in 1916 and is home to a total of 340 species and over 4,000 animals. In the year 2000 the Taronga Zoo underwent a major $250 million redevelopment which was completed only a few years back.
To get there, go to the Sydney Harbour transport area and grab a water taxi from an operator such as Captain Cook Cruises or Yellow Water Taxis. They are easy to find and cheap as chips. Tickets range from $20-$45 and are cheaper if you purchase them online at Taronga.org.au.
#4 – Bondi Beach
Arguably the most famous beach in all of Australia, plus renowned as one of the best beaches in the world. Bondi Beach is located in Bondi Bay and is one of the surrounding suburbs of Sydney.
With beautiful blue water, lovely sand and consistently good waves, Bondi Beach is an absolute must see if you are coming to Sydney, particularly if it is during the warmer months.
During summer months the beach is absolutely packed, so not only will you have to contend with big waves but you will have to avoid people too. It is roughly 8km outside of the Sydney central area and while you can walk there, the best option is a bus.
#5 – Darling Harbour
Another must see area during your next visit to Sydney is Darling Harbour. Located about a 30 minute walk from the Opera House area, it is a large recreational and hangout area which attracts millions of people a year.
Here you will find hundreds of restaurants around the enclosed harbour area. During the day there are plenty of activities for the kids including museums and street performers, while at night time it transforms into a popular nightlife hub.
You can even get yourself a yacht and dine out on the water if you wish, which is highly recommended. There is also a shopping mall located there which will please the ladies.
#6 – Sydney Sea Life Aquarium
While in Darling Harbour you would be crazy not to check out the popular Seal Life Aquarium. It is located right in the heart of Darling Harbour and is one of the biggest attractions of the area.
The aquarium boasts in excess of 13,000 individual fish and other sea and water creatures from over 700 species. It rates as one of the worlds largest aquariums and it includes two of only five dugongs on display in the world.
Kids will absolutely love their time here. The aquarium features 14 themed zones such as Jurassic Seas and Shark Walk. Tickets cost $40 for adults and $28 for children at the venue itself, but if you buy from their website they will only cost $28 and $19 respectively. So quite a saving!
# 7 – Sydney Tower Eye
One of my personal favourite things to do in Sydney is the Sydney Tower Eye and I have done it several times now. And recommend all tourists check it out.
Sydney Tower was built in 1970 and is the tallest structure in Sydney and the second tallest in the Southern Hemisphere, standing at 309 metres high. It is located in the Central Business District area and at the base is the very popular Westfield shopping centre with plenty of shops and restaurants.
But the treat is when you get to the top. You will get amazing 360 degree views of Sydney and you are told where all the great landmarks of Sydney are as well as how the city and the tower were built.
My recommendation is to look up the sunset times on Google and then head up just before so that you can see the city during day and night time for a different perspective.
#8 – ANZAC War Memorial
The ANZAC War Memorial can be found in Hyde Park, which is Sydney’s answer to Central Park in New York. It is a commemorative monument dedicated to the souldiers who gave their life in World War 1.
It is an absolute must see for war buffs or for people who want to pay their respects. In fact it is well worth checking out regardless of who you are where you are from.
It was completed in 1934 and is a beautiful sculpture indeed. The memorial is open from 9am to 5pm daily and is easy to get to being in the centre of the city.
#9 – The Rocks
The Rocks is located right near the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge area and is one of the oldest areas in the entire city of Sydney.
In fact the roots of The Rocks date back to 1788 around the time the colony was formed. Sydney built out from this area and today it is a very popular area for great restaurants and craft beers, as well as plenty of history shops and tours.
It’s close proximity to the Sydney Harbour area means that it is easily located and is usually on most people’s itineraries when visiting Sydney.
#10 – Lunar Park
Ahh good old Lunar Park, the traditional theme park located at Milsons Point. It is easily visible from the Sydney Harbour area across the water and is a popular spot for tourists to visit.
Opening in 1935, Lunar Park has had many issues over it’s troubled life. It closed in 1979, reopened in 1995, then closed again and was reopened in 2004. Safety issues, ownership problems and noise pollution are just a number of things which have plagued the park over the years.
However it has now been refurbished and contains a total of 14 rides as well as 1 rollercoaster. It is well worth checking out as it takes you back to the glory days of amusement parks.
